2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1992 BMW 538
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 538. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 538 would be higher. At 3,795 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 BMW 538 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 538 (341 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (162 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 538 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 538 weights approximately 545 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 BMW 538 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1992 BMW 538. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1992 BMW 538 (400 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 538 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1992 BMW 538 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 156 | 538 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1992 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1968 cc | 3795 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 162 HP | 341 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6900 RPM |
Torque | 206 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 94.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |